2023 Lexus RX vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2023 Lexus RX had a distinct and evolving aesthetic that spoke volumes in comparison to the previous model. It was shorter in height, broader in width, and enjoyed a longer wheelbase. Interestingly, despite these changes, the overall length remained consistent with its predecessor. This configuration offered increased trunk cargo space compared to the 2022 model, though it still fell short against other rivals. The SUV appeared more compact in photos and in person, a visual result of the reduced rear overhang and softer design lines. The black trim running down the rear pillar created a floating roof effect while lending the RX a stubby yet modern look.

At the front, the signature spindle-style grille was seamlessly integrated into the overall design, characterized by a sleek modern mesh texture that flowed into an elevated hood. This design swept back into the windshield pillars, reminiscent of the Lexus IS sedan's body sides, defining the flared rear fenders. The rear end featured a light-blade taillight design, block-letter styling for the Lexus name, and a sporty bumper with simulated air vents, offering a modern twist to its familiar look.

Inside, the RX embraced a contemporary yet minimalist interior with a noticeable reduction in buttons and knobs. Prominent features included digital instrumentation and a 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen display, with the addition of a head-up display. The Intelligent Assistant technology facilitated easier control over the RX’s functionality, though it required a subscription after three years. High-quality materials, including NuLuxe artificial leather, available genuine leather, simulated suede, and options for textured black plastic, real wood, and aluminum dashboard trims, showcased the luxury expected from Lexus. The Lexus RX was available in multiple trims, including Standard, Premium, Premium+, Luxury, and F Sport Handling, each complementing different preferences and budgets.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura MDX exhibited a blend of robust performance features and sophisticated aesthetics. Available as a standard model or in the sportier Type S variant, the MDX offered various trim packages – Technology, A-Spec, and Advance – each adding a layer of upgraded equipment. The Type S was designed with muted badges and minor front styling adjustments, framing its subtle yet performance-oriented stance. Enhancements like 21-inch wheels, quad exhaust outlets, and a rear diffuser highlighted its athletic nature.

Inside, the MDX Type S boasted a luxurious cabin with perforated Milano leather, aluminum interior trim, and a Sport Appearance package. The Type S Advance trim added open-pore wood and a leather-wrapped dashboard, reinforcing a high-end feel. A panoramic sunroof, Iconic Drive ambient lighting, and high-quality materials enhanced the interior ambiance. However, certain design elements, like the gloss black plastic dashboard sections and electronic transmission switchgear, were not as user-friendly as expected, sometimes complicating operational ease. The MDX Type S’s design subtly balanced performance and luxury without overtly advertising its capabilities, making it an appealing yet understated option.

The performance of the 2023 Lexus RX was driven by its turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. During a media test drive, two RX 350 variants (the AWD Luxury trim with 21-inch wheels and the F Sport Handling trim) were evaluated on a 20-mile test loop.

The turbo-four engine outperformed the older 3.5-liter V6 in high-altitude scenarios and provided better fuel economy, albeit with a less refined sound. The RX 350 Luxury exhibited occasional torque steer during hard acceleration and excess body motion over rough terrain. Conversely, the RX 350 F Sport Handling, with its adaptive damping suspension, felt stable and confident, especially in its Sport driving mode. Both variants, equipped with 21-inch wheels and 235/50 all-season tires, provided a balanced yet dynamically different driving experience, with the F Sport Handling showing superior handling and reduced body roll.

Lexus claimed a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 7.5 seconds for the RX 350 FWD and 7.2 seconds for the AWD variant, both delivering a satisfactory sense of speed. Fuel economy ratings stood at an anticipated 25 mpg for the FWD and 24 mpg for the AWD in combined driving. However, the real-world results during the test were slightly lower, at 22.5 mpg and 21.8 mpg, respectively.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S featured a potent turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, delivering 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque, coupled with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura’s SH-AWD system. The SH-AWD could channel up to 70 percent of engine output to a single rear wheel, noticeable when accelerating through curves. The Type S also had a distinct Lift mode, raising the ground clearance from 7.3 inches to 9.4 inches, although its 21-inch wheels and all-season performance tires weren't ideal for off-roading.

Despite significant performance upgrades, the MDX Type S faced cohesion issues. Its indecisive transmission and lack of ride compliance resulted in inconsistent behavior. During evaluation, the vehicle averaged 16.9 mpg against an EPA combined rating of 19 mpg, with a city driving figure at 17 mpg. Sport mode revealed a lack of suspension compliance, while Sport+ mode improved drivetrain response but significantly impacted fuel economy, dropping it to 14.1 mpg in dynamic driving scenarios.

The Electro-Servo brake system in the Type S presented challenges, particularly in trail-braking situations, complicating driving enthusiasm and confidence. Additionally, the Continental self-sealing performance tires squealed prematurely, and suspension non-compliance added to an unbalanced driving experience. As a result, while the MDX Type S offered engaging drives, its dynamic components didn’t integrate seamlessly.

The interior of the 2023 Lexus RX offered comfort and modern features, with variations between the Luxury and F Sport Handling trims. The RX 350 Luxury trim had semi-aniline premium leather upholstery, ten-way power-adjustable front seats, and a heated wood-and-leather steering wheel. The Peppercorn interior color combined with suede door panel accents and open-pore wood trim elevated the cabin's elegance.

The F Sport Handling variant featured Black NuLuxe simulated leather seats and Dark Graphite trim, with optional Rioja Red NuLuxe. While the sport seats provided excellent lateral support, they might feel snug for some. Both models offered good back seat comfort, although taller occupants might find the headroom slightly constrained. Improved cargo space in the RX 350 was noted, with a trunk volume of 29.6 cubic feet behind the back seat and 46.2 cubic feet with the seat folded down.

The 2023 Acura MDX also excelled in functionality, offering three rows of seats in a flexible configuration. The Type S Advance trim included 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage features, alongside premium quilted leather upholstery. Second-row seating allowed for varying configurations, doubling as pass-through or armrest with storage, although legroom might feel limited in its rearmost position. The third row, designed for children, required some effort for access.

Storage options in the MDX weren’t as generous, hindered by design elements prioritizing style over utility. The cargo area, however, offered practical features, including a well under the reversible load floor panel and hooks for securing bags. The MDX’s cargo capacity stood at 18.1 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 39.1 cubic feet with the third row folded, and reaching a maximum of 71.4 cubic feet with all rear seats folded.

The 2023 Lexus RX was equipped with the new Lexus Interface infotainment system, available with a 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen display. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, satellite radio, and numerous connected services. The system allowed for user profile setups, streaming through embedded apps, and voice control via "Hey Lexus." Despite minor issues with destination accuracy, the Intelligent Assistant generally performed well.

The 21-speaker Mark Levinson premium sound system was notable, though some adjustments were needed for optimal audio quality. Other technology highlights included digital instrumentation, Digital Latch doors, a digital rearview mirror, and available digital key technology. The color head-up display (HUD) presented useful information, but visibility issues arose when wearing polarized sunglasses.

The 2023 Acura MDX hosted a similar high-tech environment, branded as the Digital Precision Cockpit with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch non-touch-sensitive infotainment display. The True Touchpad Interface (TTI) required familiarization, as it diverted from the conventional touchscreen interaction. Complementing the system were wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa Built-In.

Infotainment frustrations stemmed from the TTI's learning curve and space consumption on the center console, conflicting with practical storage needs and partially obscuring the wireless charging pad. The Advance package furnished a 10.5-inch HUD with clear visibility and control placement, despite occasional traffic sign misreading.

A top-tier ELS Studio 3D audio system with 25 speakers showcased high sound quality with uncompressed files but showed limitations with satellite radio quality.

Safety in the 2023 Lexus RX was fortified by Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 (LSS+ 3.0), encompassing expected modern ADAS features like forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, and more. New additions included motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, intersection turn assistance with front cross-traffic alert, and a curve speed-reduction function. Advanced semi-autonomous features – Proactive Driving Assist, Traffic Jam Assist, and Advanced Park Assist – added to its safety repertoire, albeit with some operational flaws. Adaptive cruise control and HUD dependency faced visibility complications with polarized sunglasses, and curve-speed reduction tech was overly reactive.

The 2023 Acura MDX was equipped with Acura Watch, offering safety features such as forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, and an adaptive cruise control system with low-speed following capability. Additional safety tech included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and various parking sensors alongside a surround-view camera system in higher trims.

Real-world performance revealed mixed accuracy with lane-departure warnings and adaptive cruise control responsiveness. A notable issue arose when the MDX misinterpreted an overhead sign as an obstacle, momentarily braked, and required manual intervention to cancel the erroneous operation. However, the MDX boasted strong crash-test ratings with an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA.